Bored of identikit pubs? The Prestonville Arms, which is tucked away in a sleepy corner of Hamilton Road and Brigden Street in Seven Dials, makes a refreshing change for anyone who likes pubs with some olde world charm and real character.

Decorated with plenty of photographs and prints of times gone by, Victorian crockery and decorative beer mats, the pub – popular with locals – is both an old man’s establishment, as well as being a haunt for discerning 20 and 30-somethings.

Landlord Andrew White was the manager of this pub for seven years before he took over the lease and takes pride in the new menu, which marries familar pub grub options with some more adventurous fare.

The highlight of the week is curry night every Wednesday, with a choice of three curries, including a veggie option, or a chilli with a drink included for £5.95.

You can also enjoy a barbecue on the patio once a month, and soak up some sun while you eat the home-cooked grub. There’s a weekly quiz night on Tuesday evenings and, of course, the essential Sunday roast.

Part of the Prestonville Art Trail, there is also currently an exhibition of work in the pub’s gallery. “I have always loved this pub,” says Andrew. “I have been drinking here since I moved to Brighton in 1981. There is a really nice atmosphere, very friendly.

“We mostly see the same people but there’s a real cross section of punters and the food is really good. It’s a nice and comfortable place and I like it the way it is. There are no juke boxes or fruit machines, it’s a proper solid, friendly, local pub.”

Find daily specials, such as whole black bream, marinated in spices with coconut rice, curried potato salad and mixed leaves; asparagus, roasted pepper and parmesan fritatta served with salad and home-made coleslaw, or creamy duck curry served with mixed leaf salad, rice and half a nan bread, all from £6.95.

The Prestonville Arms offers five different Fullers’ bitters and real ales. “My recommendation is Fullers’ Discovery,” says Andrew, “a nice refreshing drink for the summer.”

• If you are interested in restaurants in Brighton, Hove and Sussex, visit www.theargusfoodguide.co.uk